Overview
#Hermanus Hermanus is situated on the southern coast of the Western Cape, and is known as the best land based whale watching spot in the world. The Southern Right Whale comes to the South African coastal waters during winter and spring to have their young and to suckle them before returning to the Antarctic. Due to the steep cliffs on the coast, the whales come very close to the shore, ideal for watching them from the land.
Whales were previously hunted from the nearby Betty's Bay, but since this practice has been abolished the whale numbers are increasing every year and they are moving further up the coast.
Other attractions at Hermanus include the Old Harbour Museum that has a display of whales, including a skeleton of a whale, and daily movies with information regarding whales and dolphins that are found on the coast. The 'De Wetshuis Photo Museum' houses a photographic display of the history of the town. Various art and craft markets are held every weekend at different venues in town. Anything from art, food, clothes and locally produced wine can be bought here.
Tours that visit Hermanus
popular
City & day tours
Hermanus Tour
This tour will take you to Hermanus for land based whale watching (in season). A visit to the rare African Penguin colony at Betty's Bay and a scenic drive via Elgin and Sir Lowry's Pass.
from R800
Scheduled tours
The Cape Discovery
On this scheduled guided tour you experience the scenic beauty of Route 62, you visit the iconic Cango Caves and interact with ostriches. Your route takes you along the Garden Route. At Knysna you enjoy a Sunset Knysna Oyster Cruise. You visit the museum complex at Mossel Bay, post a postcard at the famous Post Office Tree. Enjoy game viewing in an open safari vehicle on the lookout for the big five. Do cheetah tracking and visit the southernmost point of the African continent. Return to Cape Town via a wonderfully scenic coastal drive.
from R12,065
Things to see
Town
Arniston
##Arniston/Waenhuiskrans The town of Arniston is situated on the south coast of South Africa in close proximity to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of the continent. Initially it was a fishing village, but has now become a popular holiday destination. The original fishing village with its lime washed houses was maintained and has been declared a national monument.
1 tour visit here
Attraction
Betty's Bay African Penguins
##African Penguins at Betty’s Bay African Penguins are classified as ‘vulnerable” and are only found along the African Coast in the Southern Hemisphere. They normally colonize islands and are seldomly found on the the coast of the mainland. Stoney Point at Betty’s Bay is one of only three such places and offers the rare opportunity to see them up close.
1 tour visit here
Attraction
Hermanus Whale Watching
##Hermanus whale watching Hermanus is known as the best land based spot for whale watching. The steep cliffs of the coast and the depth of the water make it possible for whales to come close to the land. In season, which is normally from June to December, the number of whales at Hermanus can be more than 100.
1 tour visit here
Gallery
